Mixed method approach in designing flight decks with touch screens: A framework

Proceedings of the International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction in Aerospace

2016

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Future flight deck designs from various avionics manufacturer incorporate touchscreen technology. There is little published research investigating the impact of inflight vibrations and increased G-Force (+Gz) on touchscreen usability. A Fitts' law experiment was conducted to understand the effect of +Gz on touchscreen usability. 2-Gz and 3-Gz conditions were simulated with a weightadjustable wristband. Empirical results and subjective ratings showed a large impact of +Gz on performance and fatigue indices. While the simulated +Gz increased linearly, throughput decreased exponentially, and movement time increased exponentially. This was also reflected by subjective ratings across all conditions. Findings suggest to transfer the experimental setting into a more realistic environment (human centrifuge) where ecological validity can be achieved.

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Future flight decks

Proceedings of the International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction in Aerospace

2016

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“…Findings from this study and other related studies were used to create a framework [5] showing the relation between various aspects that could impact the usability of touchscreens (fixed and mobile) on the flight deck.…”

Section: Interface Design Guidelinesmentioning

confidence: 99%

Designing touch-enabled electronic flight bags in SAR helicopter operations

Proceedings of the International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction in Aerospace

2016

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In order to benefit from potential reduced operational costs and crew workload airlines are increasingly interested in touchscreen-based Electronic Flight Bags (EFB). This paper focuses on the specific domain of Search and Rescue (SAR) Helicopters. A first set of results aiming to explore and understand potential benefits and challenges of an EFB in a SAR environment will be presented. A review of related work, operational observations and interviews with pilots were conducted to understand and specify the use context. Digital Human Modelling (DHM) software was used to determine physical constraints of an EFB in this type of flight deck. A scenario was developed which will be used in future to define features, content and functionality that a SAR pilot may wish to see in an EFB. Developed initial interface design guidelines are presented.

Designing touch screen user interfaces for future flight deck operations

2016 IEEE/AIAA 35th Digital Avionics Systems Conference (DASC)

2016

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Abstract-Many interactional issues with Flight ManagementSystems (FMS) in modern flight decks have been reported. Avionics designers are seeking for ways to reduce cognitive load of pilots with the aim to reduce the potential for human error. Academic research showed that touch screen interfaces reduce cognitive effort and provide an intuitive way of interaction. A new way of interaction to manipulate radio frequencies of avionics systems is presented in this paper. A usability experiment simulating departures and approaches to airports was used to evaluate the interface and compare it with the current system (FMS). In addition, interviews with pilots were conducted to find out their personal impressions and to reveal problem areas of the interface. Analyses of task completion time and error rates showed that the touch interface is significantly faster and less prone to user input errors than the conventional input method (via physical or virtual keypad). Potential problem areas were identified and an improved interface is suggested.